1. MicroRNA-322 Regulates Self-renewal of Mouse Spermatogonial Stem Cells through
- Author
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Yinjuan, Wang, Xiaoyong, Li, Xiaowen, Gong, Yongqiang, Zhao, and Ji, Wu
- Subjects
Male ,SSCs ,slef-renewal ,Cell Differentiation ,WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway ,Mice ,MicroRNAs ,miRNA-322 ,Animals ,Rassf8 ,Carrier Proteins ,Spermatogenesis ,Wnt Signaling Pathway ,Research Paper - Abstract
Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are essential for spermatogenesis and male fertility. MicroRNAs (miRs) are key regulators of gene expression involved in self-renewal, differentiation, and apoptosis. However, the function and mechanisms of individual miR in regulating self-renewal and differentiation of SSCs remain unclear. Here, we report for the first time that miR-322 regulates self-renewal of SSCs. Functional assays revealed that miR-322 was essential for SSC self-renewal. Mechanistically, miR-322 promoted SSC self-renewal by targeting RASSF8 (ras association domain family 8). Moreover, the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway was involved in the miR-322-mediated regulation. Furthermore, miR-322 overexpression increased GFRα1, ETV5 and PLZF expression but decreased STRA8, C-KIT and BCL6 expression. Our study provides not only a novel insight into molecular mechanisms regulating SSC self-renewal but also a basis for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of male infertility.
- Published
- 2018